Azerbaijani MP slams India's weapons sales to Armenia as security risk

Azerbaijan has expressed concerns over India’s growing military support to Armenia, warning that the arms deliveries and other forms of assistance could undermine Azerbaijan’s national security.

Fariz Ismailzadeh, a member of the Milli Majlis Committee on International Relations and Interparliamentary Ties, raised the issue during a discussion on "Rise of the Global South and the West: Azerbaijan's Role, New Opportunities for Cooperation and Development", Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

“India's support to Armenia, arming it with missiles and other equipment, creates a problem for our national security,” Ismailzadeh stated, highlighting the direct impact such assistance has on Azerbaijan’s security landscape.

He further pointed out that Azerbaijan’s global standing has been on the rise, particularly through its leadership in multilateral diplomacy. "Especially during COP29, during the chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement, and in other areas of multilateral diplomacy, respect for Azerbaijan has increased significantly. This is the achievement of Azerbaijani diplomats," he added, emphasising the country's growing influence.

Ismailzadeh also underscored Azerbaijan’s commitment to maintaining a balanced foreign policy, which includes managing relations between countries that are either in competition or conflict. His comments reflect Azerbaijan's careful navigation of its international relationships, despite growing tensions in the region.

The controversy comes amid increasing defence cooperation between Armenia and India. Between 2022 and 2023, Armenia signed defence contracts with India worth over $1.5 billion, which includes procurement agreements for a variety of military equipment. These agreements cover Indian-made 214-mm Pinaka multiple launch rocket systems, 155-mm ATAGS artillery systems, ZADS anti-drone systems, Akash-1S air defence systems, and Konkurs anti-tank missile systems produced under a Russian license. Additionally, India is set to deliver the Akash-NG medium-range air defence system soon, further intensifying the security concerns of Azerbaijan.

As these defense deals continue to take shape, Azerbaijan remains wary of the potential implications for its own national security.

By Tamilla Hasanova